Australian Annual Flying Saucer Review - 1983

Magazine Overview

Title: The Australian Annual Flying Saucer Review
Issue Date: November 21, 1985 (though content appears to span earlier decades)
Publisher: The Victorian UFO Research Society
Country of Publication: Australia
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Editorial: "Where Have all the UFOs Gone?"

The editorial notes a significant decline in UFO sightings since 1978, describing it as a "World UFO Depression." While acknowledging that sightings still occur, particularly 'lights in the sky' and older reports being retold, the number of substantial, high-quality sightings has diminished. The editor posits that UFOs are not merely figments of imagination but 'identities' that can appear and disappear at will. The piece contrasts this lull with the multi-sightings of 1969, fueled by events like the moon landings and the Vietnam War, suggesting that current public interest in escapism through fantasy (e.g., movies like E.T.) has not translated into increased UFO reports. The advent of computers in UFO research is seen as a tool to combat hoaxes, with 99% of sightings in the last 30 years deemed either genuine mistakes or real UFOs. The editorial concludes by referencing Dr. Hermann Oberth's belief in extraterrestrial intelligences visiting Earth and suggests that intelligence is key to understanding the UFO phenomenon and the current lack of sightings.

Three Thousand Years of UFOs?

This article explores historical accounts of unexplained aerial phenomena, tracing them back through recorded history and mythology. It discusses how early humans attributed such events to supernatural beings and how, as knowledge increased, new mysteries emerged. The author highlights archaeological enigmas like the Nazca Lines, the Pyramids, and Easter Island carvings as examples of things difficult to explain with current knowledge. The piece examines theories of early extraterrestrial visitation, drawing on ancient texts and myths, but ultimately concludes that the archaeological and mythological evidence is limited and inconclusive. While not disproving the possibility of visitation, the author advises against relying on these theories for understanding contemporary UFO phenomena, suggesting that UFOs are merely the latest manifestation of a long history of potential interplanetary visits.

The Close Encounter of Maureen Puddy

This article details a triple UFO experience reported by Mrs. Maureen Puddy in July 1972. The first encounter involved a large, circular, blue-glowing object, described as being like two saucers joined together, approximately 100 feet across, which followed her car for about eight miles. The object was smooth, without visible seams or rivets, and emitted a brilliant blue light. The second encounter occurred three weeks later on the same road, where the blue light reappeared, causing her car to stop. During this event, Mrs. Puddy heard a voice, described as perfectly modulated and computer-like, which told her not to be afraid and that 'you are now in control.' The car then restarted. She reported the sighting to the police and Laverton RAF Station, who advised her not to discuss it to avoid panic. The third experience was psychic and occurred about six months later, involving a voice calling her to a 'meeting place.' This led to a meeting with VUFORS representatives, during which Mrs. Puddy described an entity in a gold foil suit appearing in her car. She then described the interior of a UFO, including a large, mushroom-like object. The entity reportedly beckoned her to follow, but she refused. Later, she identified a small compass on a suction cup from her car's dashboard as matching her description of an object seen inside the UFO.

Computers Say U.F.O.s Real

This section reports on a study by French scientist Claude Poher, who analyzed 35,000 UFO observation reports. After feeding the data into a computer and comparing sightings with known phenomena like planets, weather balloons, and meteorites, the computer concluded that flying saucers do exist. The findings indicated that UFOs have landed numerous times in remote areas, appear as bright metallic objects reflecting sunlight during the day, and take on yellowish or greenish-orange hues at night. They can manifest as discs, spheres, or cigars. The study also noted that 70% of observations occurred at night, 10% involved landings, and 1 in 20 sightings included contact with extraterrestrial astronauts. Magnetic forces were often present, capable of disrupting electronic equipment. The article also touches upon Maurice Chatelain's theory about spaceships using planetary gravity to travel and mentions polls indicating a significant percentage of the US population believes in alien visitors.

Some Highlights in Australian Ufology

This article by Paul Norman recounts significant events and developments in Australian ufology, particularly concerning the Victorian UFO Research Society (VUFORS). It begins with the author's early association with VUFORS in the 1960s and his migration to Australia in 1963. The piece highlights the official attitude of the RAAF, which stated it investigated UFO reports but kept details confidential. It mentions the first UFO convention in Ballarat in 1965 and VUFORS's coordination of Professor James E. McDonald's visit in 1967. The article details a significant Radar/Visual Encounter reported in Melbourne newspapers in December 1954, involving Navy fighter pilots and disc-shaped objects. It also discusses the challenges VUFORS faced in obtaining information, citing an instance where an Air Force officer's report differed from headquarters' summary. The article touches upon the case of a UFO filmed by an airliner captain and the subsequent efforts to suppress information. It also references the Frederick Valentich case as a pivotal event that changed official attitudes towards UFOs.

Further Australian Encounters and Theories

This section continues the exploration of UFO activity in Australia. It details a physical trace case at Kilmany in 1980, noting that the RAAF was informed and that VUFORS has confidential reports. The article mentions the tragic death of Frederick Valentich as a key event that accelerated cooperation with officials. It also recounts the Boainai, Papua New Guinea, encounter from 1959. The text then shifts to discuss the possibility of extraterrestrial life on Mars, referencing a new book that claims evidence of ancient civilizations, including pyramids and a human-like face, based on Viking spacecraft photographs. The article also delves into the mystery of the Dogon tribe of Mali and their advanced astronomical knowledge, which some believe was imparted by aliens from Sirius B. It touches upon the alleged crash of a UFO near Roswell, New Mexico, in 1947, and the phenomenon of 'Raudive voices' – unexplained messages picked up on tape recorders, theorized to be attempts by space intelligence to communicate.

Application for Membership

This section includes a form for applying for membership to the Victorian UFO Research Society, detailing subscription rates for Australian and overseas members, and providing contact information for the society.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the detailed reporting of specific UFO sightings and encounters, particularly within Australia, the investigation of physical traces and potential government cover-ups, and the exploration of historical and scientific evidence for extraterrestrial life and visitation. The editorial stance, as expressed in the opening piece, is one of cautious inquiry, acknowledging the decline in reported sightings but maintaining an open mind to the possibility of genuine UFO phenomena and extraterrestrial intelligence. The publication emphasizes the importance of collecting and disseminating information, while also highlighting the challenges posed by hoaxes and official secrecy. The issue also reflects a growing interest in the scientific investigation of space, such as the Mars findings, and the enduring mysteries of ancient civilizations and unexplained phenomena like the Raudive voices.

Title: The Australian Annual Flying SAUCER Review - Overseas U.F.O. NEWS
Issue Date: November 9, 1982
Publisher: Victorian U.F.O. Research Society
Country: Australia

This issue of The Australian Annual Flying Saucer Review presents a historical overview of UFO sightings, primarily focusing on Australia and New Zealand, with some references to the United States. It aims to demonstrate that the UFO phenomenon is not a modern invention but has roots extending back to early European settlement in the region. The publication also touches upon alleged government cover-ups and the efforts of UFO research organizations.

Historical Sightings in Australia and New Zealand

The magazine begins by challenging the notion that UFOs are a 1950s phenomenon, asserting that reports extend much further back. It credits Australian and New Zealand citizens, including reporters, farmers, and seafarers, for documenting these events.

Early Reports:

• 1800s: A ship reported a "ball of fire" approaching with a thunderous noise, splintering topmasts and emitting a strong odor of sulphur.
• 1874 (October): A farmer in Beechworth, Victoria, reported an object over his field.
• 1885 (February): The crew of a ship sailing the Pacific saw a large, fiery red ball in the sky that hissed and fell into the sea, causing huge waves.
• 1885 (November): Another Pacific sighting involved a British steamer crew witnessing a huge ball of light rise from the water, approach the ship, and then dash away.
• 1893: In Central NSW, a farmer claimed a saucer-shaped object landed in his paddock. A man in strange clothing emerged, shone a "torch" at the farmer, knocking him down and paralyzing his hand. The man and object then vanished.
• 1909 (July 30): Near Waikaka Valley, New Zealand, the crew of a dredge reported a boat-shaped object with two occupants visible.
• 1909 (August): Over Marlborough Sound, New Zealand, an object reportedly ejected strange missiles that made fizzing sounds as they hit the water.
• 1909 (August 3): Near Waipawawa, New Zealand, a man reported a cigar-shaped object hovering overhead with three human-like figures on deck. One figure waved.
• 1909 (August 5): Over Wanganui, New Zealand, a newspaper man reported a cigar-shaped object with two wide wings flying overhead with a hissing noise.
• 1909 (October 25): In Western Australia, Mrs. A. J. Roe described a compact, squarer-than-aeroplane object like a dirigible balloon, with flashes emanating from it.
• 1868 (July 25): Mr. F. W. Birmingham, a surveyor, reported a vision of floating heads and an "ark" moving and landing in Parramatta Park. He was invited into the "ark" by a "spirit" and later woke up deeply impressed.
• 1873: The South Australian Register reported a bright light following a sailing ship for almost an hour, described as "milky-white" and causing a "shuddering feeling" and eye ache.

Later Reports:

• 1910 (August 3): Captain Nelsson of the coastal steamer Wookata reported mysterious lights at sea near Althorp Island, describing them as bright, high-up lights that circled the ship and appeared to pass by.
• 1910 (August): Three station hands in Australia saw a "mystery airship," leading to a report to the Minister for Customs.
• 1911 (March 11): In Ballarat, Victoria, Miss Edwards and others reported seeing a "mystery airship" that circled and swept over the town.
• 1919: In Central New South Wales, a man encountered an artifact and a "man" working on it. The "man" pointed something at him, knocking him senseless. When he recovered, the "man" and object were gone.
• 1920 (September 15): Thousands of Sydney, NSW, residents saw a luminous visitor of astonishing brilliance in the sky.
• 1920 (October 1): Rockets were seen on the coast near Gould's Country, Tasmania, at 8 o'clock.
• 1925: Two young men in Moora, Western Australia, found an object resting in a paddock, described as two saucers on edge with "windows" and "legs." They retreated and later found the earth scuffed.

U.S. Government and UFO Cover-ups

The article "Is U.S. Government engaging in UFO coverup?" by Walter Massey discusses claims that the U.S. government has deliberately misled the public about UFOs for years. Robert Hastings, a UFO researcher, presented evidence suggesting that the government knows about extraterrestrial visits and has actively covered up this information. Hastings' own experience in a military air traffic control tower, where radar tracked UFOs moving at incredible speeds, led him to research the subject. He claims his phone has been tapped and documents intercepted, indicating he is under surveillance. Hastings also presented evidence of alien spacecraft wreckage and non-human crew members being collected by the government, citing a 1950s crash reported by a rancher. He believes that Project Bluebook was a public relations stunt and that real UFO research is conducted in secrecy by agencies like the CIA and NSA. Hastings argues that government secrecy is "short-sighted" and that disclosure would prevent panic.

The article also mentions the Betty and Barney Hill abduction case from 1961 in New Hampshire, where they recalled a terrifying experience aboard an alien spacecraft under hypnosis.

Notable Claims and Encounters

• Eisenhower Visited by UFO (British Lord Claims): The Earl of Clancarty claims that U.S. President Dwight Eisenhower met aliens from outer space at Edwards Air Force Base on February 20, 1954. According to a former test pilot, five alien craft landed, and the "UFOnauts" displayed paranormal powers and left after stating they wanted to start an education program for Earth's people. All involved were sworn to secrecy.
• Hampton UFO Update: An unidentified flying object was reported over a field in Hampton, seen as a large bright light flying slowly at treetop level for about ten minutes with no noise. Similar objects had been seen in the area on previous occasions.
• Enfield UFO Sighting: "A Monstrosity of a Disc": Paul A. Boucher, a contract administrator, reported seeing an "acre-sized Unidentified Flying Object" with approximately 300 piercing white lights hovering over his car. He described the object as a "monstrosity of a disc" with a "watery gray" color. It emitted a low-pitched, grinding whir, then turned flaming red and shot up into the sky. Boucher was visibly shaken by the experience.
• Readers Tell Tilson - We Saw Flash Too: Interim Sheriff Rich Tilson reported a mysterious flash witnessed by himself and other law enforcement officers and citizens. This flash was also reported by Nebraska citizens. The object was described as a white light emanating both up and down before disappearing. Two UFOs were reportedly seen by Joe and Tauni Murnan, one described as round, glowing, and purplish-pink, and the other moving south. The objects made no noise.
• Colorado Encounter Has Physical Effects: Elizabeth Conway reported a close encounter with a UFO accompanied by physical effects, including a rash on her arms and reactions from farm animals. She described seeing a bright orange glow and a large orange ball descending. The object touched down on a pond, and later, tall weeds in the area were found flattened in a circle. Neighbors' animals also reacted as if frightened.
• UFOs Recalled (Starks): At least six people spotted an unidentified flying object hovering as a bright light near State Route 43. Deputy Sheriff Harold "Bud" Hendsbee, a 24-year veteran, still believes in UFOs after this sighting, stating, "Absolutely. No doubt about it."
• UFO Landing is Reported (Coulterville): An unverified report of a UFO landing in Mariposa County occurred when two motorists' vehicles suddenly stopped. They saw the object landing on hilly terrain and fled when it began making "unearthly sounds."
• UFOs Exist: Dr. Harley Rutledge, Director of Project Identification, states unequivocally that real UFOs exist and are not a phenomenon of nature, based on his field studies and observations.
• UFO Turns on its Red Light and Pulls Over Three Cops: Three Palatine police officers reported seeing a UFO. Commander Michael McDonald described an intense white and red light, bright enough to light up the ground, estimated to be 300 to 500 feet above. The object made no noise and disappeared behind Busse Woods.

Society History and Activities

The magazine provides a history of UFO research organizations, particularly in Australia. The earliest group mentioned is the "Australian Flying Saucer Bureau" formed in the early 1950s by Edgar Jarrold and Andrew Tomas. Fred Stone also started the "Australian Flying Saucer Research Society" in Adelaide around the same time. These groups evolved into the "Australian UFO Investigation Centre" and later the "Victorian Flying Saucer Research Society" (formed February 17, 1957), eventually becoming the "Victorian U.F.O. Research Society" in 1968.

The Victorian U.F.O. Research Society has published various papers, including the "Australian Flying Saucer Review" and the "Australian U.F.O. Bulletin." They have also sponsored a radio program called "The Truth Behind Flying Saucers." The Society maintains a dispassionate, scientific approach to UFOs and boasts the largest UFO library in the Southern Hemisphere. Membership is open to those genuinely interested in the subject.

Mr. Mark Sawyers, Secretary of the Victorian UFO Research Society, believes the U.S. is withholding significant information about UFO sightings since World War II. The Society has received hundreds of reports, many involving colored lights in the sky. He also recalls the case of Fredrick Valentich's disappearance over Bass Strait in 1978.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the historical prevalence of UFO sightings across different eras and locations, the alleged secrecy and cover-up by governments (particularly the U.S.), and the dedicated efforts of UFO research societies to investigate and understand these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, challenging skepticism, and advocating for the serious consideration of UFO reports as potentially representing real, unexplained phenomena, possibly of extraterrestrial origin. There is a clear emphasis on presenting documented cases and the perspectives of researchers and witnesses, suggesting that UFOs are a genuine mystery that warrants further investigation rather than outright dismissal.

This document is the cover of 'The Australian Annual Flying Saucer Review', dated 1977. It is published by The Victorian UFO Research Society. The cover features a prominent illustration of a grey alien's head with large, dark eyes, set against a dark, somewhat abstract background. The main headline on the cover is 'Unexplained Visitors from Where?', posing a direct question about the origin of these phenomena.

Content and Themes

The publication's title and cover imagery strongly suggest that the content within this issue focuses on UFO sightings, alien encounters, and the broader topic of extraterrestrial visitation. The inclusion of 'Annual Review' indicates it is a yearly compilation of relevant cases, research, or articles concerning flying saucers and related mysteries, likely with a focus on Australian incidents or perspectives given the title.

The Victorian UFO Research Society, as the publisher, is an organization dedicated to investigating and documenting UFO phenomena. Their involvement implies a serious approach to the subject matter, likely presenting case studies, eyewitness accounts, and possibly theoretical discussions on the nature and origin of UFOs and their occupants.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is undoubtedly UFOs and the possibility of extraterrestrial visitors. The cover's direct question, 'Unexplained Visitors from Where?', suggests an editorial stance that is inquisitive and open to exploring various hypotheses regarding the origin and nature of these phenomena. The visual emphasis on the alien figure reinforces the focus on the occupants of these craft, rather than solely on the technology or sightings themselves. The publication aims to engage readers with the ongoing mystery of unexplained aerial phenomena and potential alien presence.